2. To comfort us, because in a world of all dangers and judgements, we may flye unto the mercy of God.
Doct. 4. There are wont to be but a few godly men in the world.
This is gathered therehence, that Noah is called the eighth of the godly, or rather he may be called the seventh, because Cham was cursed. Reason 1. In respect of God, because he gives this grace but unto a few, that his goodnesse and mercy towards them may appeare the more abundant. 2. In respect of the second causes, and of the nature of the thing it selfe, because that which is most difficult, and of the greatest care and perfection, is not wont to be found but in few. The gifts of nature are common unto all; of art and industry to fewer, but the gifts of grace to fewest of all. There are more good Taylors, then good Physitians, and more good Physitians then good Kings. So that that hath the greatest perfection, which is given but to a few. Vse 1. This may serve to admonish us, to be so much the more diligent to make our election and calling sure. 2. To exhort us, to give God thanks, that he hath made us partakers of that happinesse, which he grants but to a few. Doct. 5. All the godly, that will be made partakers of Gods mercy, must be preachers of righteousnesse, as Noah was.
Now righteousnesse is preached not only in words, but also in deeds. For so it is wont to be said, The thing it selfe speaketh, not the tongue only, Phil. 2.15, 16.
Reason. Because no man can escape the revenging justice of God, unlesse he labour to follow and advance the righteousnesse that is prescribed by him.
Vse 1. This may serve to condemne and reprove those, that are rather Preachers of unrighteousnesse, then of righteousnesse.
2. To exhort us, more and more to stir up our selves to have a care of this duty.
